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The entire western boundary of Indian Rocks Beach, Fla., is comprised of white, powdery sand extending out into the azure-blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The abundance of sunny weather coupled with the allure of warm ocean waves makes the small town on the barrier island a magnet for tourism. As such, accommodation in Indian Rocks Beach should be booked several months in advance.

Poolside Retreats

At the intersection of Fifth Avenue North and Gulf Boulevard, SunTiki Cottage Vacation Rentals operates four different poolside cottages. While the cottages vary, from the smaller studio-sized Castaway Cottage to the two-story, four-bedroom Sandcastle Cottage, each has air conditioning, a full kitchen and wireless Internet. None of the cottages allow pets or smoking. The private, guests-only pool is heated from December through April, while the built-in spa is heated year-round. The beach, at the end of the block, offers another swimming option.

Cottage Communities

Gulfside Resorts operates several rental cottage communities up and down the Gulf of Mexico beachfront. At one community, Sarah's Seaside near Third Avenue on Gulf Boulevard, a narrow pedestrian path winds through the cottages, leading past mature palm trees and an exotically shaped in-ground pool, to the white sand and bright blue water of the Gulf of Mexico. Gulfside Resorts' luxury cottages range from studio to three-bedroom cottages -- all with modern interior design and appliances.

Neighborhood Nests

Indian Rocks Rentals manages six rental homes, all in close proximity to one another. The only cottage, Cozy Cottage, is just a three-minute stroll from the beach. The cottage sleeps three comfortably and allows pets. In addition to air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen and supplies for the beach (towels, chairs and umbrellas), the cottage has two bicycles and a two-person kayak available for you to use. The company's other rentals include apartments, houses and a bungalow. Compared to other area cottages, Cozy Cottage is very affordable. This is due in part to the company's no-credit-cards policy -- so bring cash or check to pay for your stay.

Historic Hospitality

On the east side of Gulf Boulevard, Sunshine Cozy Cottages operates 14 one- and two-bedroom cottages one block from the beach. The resort cottages, which date back to the 1940s, were among the first such resorts in the area. They provide full kitchens with basic appliances and utensils, simple living rooms and queen-size beds. Outside, the quaint cottages come equipped with a barbecue grill and deck or patio -- a few of which provide views of the ocean. All of the cottages overlook the grassy courtyard.

About the Author

Mary Locke has been writing professionally since 2009. She has contributed to various online and print publications, including the Skint Press travel series. Locke holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Portland State University.